- Must visit
National War Museum
National museum inside Fort St Elmo covering Malta’s military past, including the Great Siege and Second World War.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Catania to Malta (Island)
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$111
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$111
Fastest journey on Sep 18
1 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
1 h 45 m
Ferries on Sep 18
3
Distance
189 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Catania to Malta (Island) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Catania to Malta (Island) will cost around $111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $111.
Fast ferries
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 3 ferries from Catania to Malta (Island), including 3 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct ferries cover the 189 km distance in an average of 1 h 45 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 1 h 45 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest ferries will take 1 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
ST JOHN PAUL II9:30 PM1h45Port of Pozzallo11:15 PMPort of Valletta$1111One-way0 transfers- ST JOHN PAUL II8:00 AM1h45Port of Pozzallo9:45 AMPort of Valletta$1111One-way0 transfers
- JEAN DE LA VALETTE7:30 PM1h45Port of Pozzallo9:15 PMPort of Valletta$1111One-way0 transfers
- ST JOHN PAUL II9:30 PM1h45Port of Pozzallo11:15 PMPort of Valletta$1111One-way0 transfers
- ST JOHN PAUL II8:00 AM1h45Port of Pozzallo9:45 AMPort of Valletta$1111One-way0 transfers
- JEAN DE LA VALETTE7:30 PM1h45Port of Pozzallo9:15 PMPort of Valletta$1111One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare flight and ferry for Catania to Malta (Island)
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Catania to Malta (Island) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the ferry, with an average ticket price of $99 For those with little time, consider booking a ferry, which has an average total journey time of 2h 45m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of $99, while a flight costs an average of $362.
Distance: 102 nautical miles (189 km)
Compare ferry with
| Ferry | Most popular Flight |
|---|---|
$99 Average price Cheapest | $362 Average price |
2h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 4h 58m Average total duration 2h 58m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular ferry company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Catania to Malta (Island) is a ferry with an average price of $99.
This is compared to other travel options from Catania to Malta (Island):
A ferry is $263 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Catania to Malta (Island) costing on average $362.
The fastest way to travel from Catania to Malta (Island) is by ferry with an average journey time of 1h 45m.
Other travel options to Malta (Island) take longer:
Flight takes on average 2h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Catania and Malta (Island) including taking a flight and ferry.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Catania to Malta (Island) among Omio's users.
Catania to Malta (Island) Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Virtu Ferries | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Wed, Fri |
Operator Virtu Car Ferries | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 4h15 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Virtu Car Ferries | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Virtu Car Ferries | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Sun |
Operator Virtu Car Ferries | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Virtu Car Ferries | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Mon, Sun |
Operator Virtu Ferries | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Virtu Ferries | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Virtu Ferries | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Virtu Ferries | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 1h45 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun |
Operator Virtu Car Ferries | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 4h45 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Sun |
Live departures
Catania to Malta (Island) ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Catania to Malta (Island) ferries for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ST JOHN PAUL II | 1:30 PM Port of Pozzallo | 1h45 | 3:15 PM Port of Valletta | 0 transfersDirect | |
| JEAN DE LA VALETTE | 7:30 PM Port of Pozzallo | 1h45 | 9:15 PM Port of Valletta | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ST JOHN PAUL II | 9:30 PM Port of Pozzallo | 1h45 | 11:15 PM Port of Valletta | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Catania to Malta (Island) by flight or ferry
Compare flight and ferry prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Catania to Malta (Island) ferries with Omio?
Virtu Ferries operates all ferries services from Catania to Malta (Island).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Catania to Malta (Island).
Why book with Omio vs Virtu Ferries?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Virtu Ferries with all available travel options, which are flight and ferry to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Catania to Malta (Island).
Why book with Omio over Ferryhopper or Directferries?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including flight and ferry to find the ideal travel option from Catania to Malta (Island).
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Catania to Malta (Island)
Italy
Malta
Ferries from Catania to Malta (Island) run on average 2 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $88 but you can travel from only $21 by flight.
There are 2 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 05:00, the last at 23:30. The fastest ferry covers the 102 nautical miles (189 km) distance in 1h 45m. There are 8 sailings per week.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $21
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 102 nautical miles (189 km) |
Average sailing duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $88 |
Ferries per day 2 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 8 |
Fastest ferry 1h 45m |
First ferry 5:00 AM |
Last ferry 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 56 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $21
Ferry operators: Virtu Ferries, Virtu Car Ferries from Catania to Malta (Island)You can travel by ferry between Catania to Malta (Island) with Virtu Ferries, Virtu Car Ferries for as low as $21. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Virtu Ferries
About
Virtu Ferries is a Maltese company, founded in 1988, specializing in high-speed passenger and car ferry services. It operates daily, year-round routes between Malta (Valletta) and Sicily (Pozzallo), with a crossing time of approximately 90 minutes. The company utilizes a fleet of modern catamarans, including the M/V Saint John Paul II, which can carry 900 passengers and 167 cars or 23 heavy commercial vehicles. Virtu Ferries is a subsidiary of Virtu Holdings, a family-owned ship-owning group established in 1945, which has diversified into various maritime and other business interests. Annually, Virtu Ferries transports over 300,000 passengers and 70,000 vehicles on its Malta-Sicily route, playing a significant role in connecting the two Mediterranean islands for both tourism and commercial purposes. Its subsidiary, Venezia Lines, also operates seasonal services in the Adriatic Sea.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Virtu Ferries Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Virtu Ferries Price
$88
Virtu Ferries frequency
3 a day
Additional luggage
Extra luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations accepted up to 24 hours before departure with fee
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria and bar service available
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible vessels with assistance available
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled
Cabin reservation
Cabins available on Malta-Sicily route
Car on board
Virtu Car Ferries
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Virtu Car Ferries Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Virtu Car Ferries Price
$131
Virtu Car Ferries frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Malta (Island)
Things to do in Malta (Island)
Discover the best of Malta (Island) — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Malta (Island) trip today.
- Must visit
National Museum of Archaeology
Leading archaeology museum in Valletta with prehistoric treasures from Malta’s temple sites, ideal for essential cultural context.
- Recommended
MUŻA
Important fine arts museum in a grand Auberge, showing Maltese and European works from the medieval period onward.
- Must visit
Valletta Waterfront
Elegant waterfront promenade in Valletta with major harbor views, historic bastions, and access to ferries, gardens, and city landmarks.
- Must visit
Republic Street
Historic ceremonial street through Valletta lined with palaces, churches, and shops. One of the city’s best walks for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Terraced public garden above Grand Harbour with iconic views, monuments, and the famous saluting battery below.
- Vegetarian
Pastizzi
A flaky savory pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas. It is Malta’s most iconic street snack and a daily favorite at village bars and bakeries.
- Gluten-free
Stuffat Tal-Fenek
Slow-cooked rabbit, often braised in wine, garlic, and herbs. Rabbit has long been central to Maltese family feasts and traditional Sunday meals.
Ftira
A ring-shaped bread topped with tomatoes, tuna, capers, olives, and local cheese. It is a classic Maltese snack tied to village bakeries and summer eating.
de Mondion
Elegant fine dining in Mdina known for refined Maltese and Mediterranean cooking in a historic setting with a polished, romantic atmosphere.
Tartarun
Long-standing casual spot in Marsaxlokk popular for very fresh seafood and harbor views. Best for local fish in a lively traditional fishing village.
Rubino
Historic Valletta restaurant famous for traditional Maltese dishes, rabbit, and local fish. Warm, old-world rooms create a classic special-occasion feel.
Euro (€)
Moderate for the Mediterranean. Hotels in peak season rise, but buses are cheap and dining ranges from casual to upscale.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included, but 5-10% is common in restaurants for good service. Round up for taxis and leave small change at cafes if service was good.
Tallinja
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.00
To the city center
Port of Valletta -> Triton Fountain, Valletta
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless bank cards are accepted on Malta Public Transport buses; fares vary by season, so check the official fare table before boarding.
- Tallinja gives official bus routes, live information, and journey planning for Valletta and the rest of Malta.
FAQs: Ferry from Catania to Malta (Island)
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Catania to Malta (Island) by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Malta (Island), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Catania to Malta (Island) can start from as little as $88 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Catania to Malta (Island) is $99 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by ferry from Catania to Malta (Island) is 1h 45m to travel the 117 miles (189 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest ferry from Catania to Malta (Island) leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Catania to Malta (Island) leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct ferries a day from Catania to Malta (Island) with Virtu Ferries. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
No, there are no cabins on ferries from Catania to Malta (Island).
No, there are no vehicle options on ferries from Catania to Malta (Island).
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Catania to Malta (Island) is possible with . We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot, but please check specific times for each route. If you need to book your travel to the departure port, check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Catania to Malta (Island), you can count on Virtu Ferries for the best way to get you to Malta (Island). You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Catania and Malta (Island) and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A day trip to Malta (Island) from Catania is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a ferry from Catania to Malta (Island) is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Catania and Malta (Island) including taking a flight and ferry.
Since both Catania and Malta (Island) are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Catania to Malta (Island) among Omio's users.
Malta uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers find that both cash and card payments are widely accepted, but using cards is convenient for most purchases, while carrying some cash is useful for smaller vendors or markets.
In Malta, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially in popular tourist spots and on public transportation. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides without meters and unofficial tour operators offering deals that may not be legitimate. It is advisable to use licensed taxis, agree on fares beforehand, and be vigilant when approached by strangers offering unsolicited assistance or deals. Overall, Malta is considered safe, but staying alert to petty theft and common scams helps ensure a smooth visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular ferry ports
Popular ports from Catania to Malta (Island)
Most Catania to Malta (Island) ferries use the Port of Pozzallo to Port of Valletta port pair. Use this guide to compare Catania and Malta (Island) ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Catania
Arrival ports in Malta
Which Malta (Island) port do ferries from Catania arrive at?
Ferries from Catania to Malta (Island) arrive at Port of Valletta. Port of Valletta is 0 miles (1 km) from Malta (Island) city centre.
Port of VallettaIl-Vittimi Furjanizi, Il-Furjana, Malta
City-centre transport
Getting to Port of Valletta from Malta city centre
Bus lines 133, 130, StopValletta Terminus
Port of Valletta port facilities and services
Port of Valletta has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafe Society (0.3km), Panorama Restaurant (0.5km), Rampila Restaurant (0.7km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available inside the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Port of Valletta.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Port of Valletta: Parking, Taxis, WC.
More options for your journey from Catania to Malta (Island)
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Malta (Island) and Catania
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